Well, I picked up my new (to me) 2012 RSS today:yes:. This was my first time driving the 998 V-twin motor. I must say, I was very impressed with the power. It will take some getting used to the higher RPM's on the RS in comparison to my 1330 in my 2014 RT SM6. I do like the shifting of my new SE5 better than I thought. It is crisp and easy to drive.
I do hope that BRP has some sort of replacement in this configuration for the future. I have driven the F3 and like it, but don't think it is a good replacement for the RS. They are too different. Kind of like saying that a harley is a good replacement for a sportbike. They both have their place, and their own target audience.
My total drive home from Roanoke, Va to Apex, NC was about 160 miles. I think my first upgrades will be a sport touring windshield, and driver floor boards. I would like cruise control, but will settle for using my cramp buster or a throttle lock for now. The stock seat is pretty good, but not made for long trips. All in all, I think I will be very happy. In the key places that I think this bike is coming up short (lack of tunes, drivers backrest, less wind protection, 6th gear, and good gas milage, ets.), I have the RT to fill those holes. The strong points here are the cornering, sound (love the Vtwin rumble), manuverability, etc. I am blessed to have both for now, and couldn't be happier.